Sure, if Cundiff had tacked on the 3 points he missed on a 30 yard field goal; the Ravens would have scored 18 to the Colts’ 17-but it wasn’t his fault.

The Baltimore Ravens’ 17-15 loss to the Indianapolis Colts Sunday at M&T Bank Stadium was the fault of everyone on the football team. From the one with the smallest role (Long Snapper Matt Katula); to the one with the greatest (Coach John Harbaugh).

But following the Ravens’ loss, John Harbaugh’s chat with the media would have better served his football team had it sounded like this…..

“Guys, this one is on me. I shouldn’t have called timeout there before the review. I shouldn’t have asked someone who isn’t a punt returner to return the game’s most important punt. I shouldn’t have allowed Joe Flacco to throw the ball over the middle to Ray Rice. All of this is my fault. And I’m going to spend this week trying to figure out how I can improve as a football coach.”

He shouldn’t have said that because the loss IS his fault-it isn’t. He should have said it because the team desperately needs the deflection following ANOTHER crushing loss. Whatever he’s tried to do with his guys so far this season just hasn’t worked.

This team feeds off emotional ploys. They willed themselves to the AFC Championship Game a season ago thanks in part to the spirit of their friend and “teammate” O.J. Brigance. John Harbaugh credited the win at Texas Stadium a season ago to informing the football team that Jerry Jones personally selected them to be served on a silver platter to the Dallas Cowboys. He’s rallied the team around Rex Ryan, he’s rallied the team around even their O-Line Coach John Matsko.

But whatever he’s trying to do emotionally with this team this season isn’t working. They just aren’t responding when they’re most needed to. Maybe the message isn’t “stale” as most argued Brian Billick’s had become-but the message needs a re-heating.

Emotionally, this team just isn’t there. It might be a lack of focus (they were pretty loose again Friday in preparation for today’s game), it might be the fact that Harbaugh spends a great deal of time during the week reminding players of what they can and cannot say (which MULTIPLE players have confirmed to me), it might be that the team has just accepted their fate following a few crushing losses (although no one I have talked to has given me that idea).

But the same response of “We all could have done better, me included” just isn’t cutting it. Saying “I don’t have any thoughts” on Ed Reed’s pitch isn’t accomplishing anything.

The easy retort to this is “How do you know John is handling these things behind closed doors?”

I don’t know. Even though I’ve been given the indication that he hasn’t tried much in the way of emotional ploys; I still don’t know. But it also doesn’t matter.

This team needs to have their issues brought to light, and they need to be willing to talk about it. It’s an emotional bunch-NOT an Andy Reid coached, tight-lipped bunch. These guys just don’t respond to the business-like mentality that their head coach is trying to preach. They respond to raw emotion. They respond to being allowed to go a little crazy.

John Harbaugh should have gone off the script a bit today. He should have tried to win his group back emotionally.

The easiest way to have done that would have been to put it on himself; and accept responsibility for a bad loss even if he didn’t deserve it.

Instead, he’ll have an entire week to figure out what he needs to do.

-G

—————————–

NOTES:

-Fabian Washington (knee sprain) is the only injury concern. He’ll have an MRI tomorrow.

-The Ravens scored 12 points in the first half; reaching double digits in the first 30 minutes for the first time since Week 3 against Cleveland.

-With 135 total yards of offense, Ray Rice surpassed the century mark for the 7th consecutive game.

-Hear from John Harbaugh, Joe Flacco, Ray Rice, Derrick Mason, Billy Cundiff, Dwan Edwards, Cam Cameron, Matt Birk and Haloti Ngata NOW in the Audio Vault at WNST.net. At one point, Ray Rice said Peyton Manning was “foolish” if he thought he had a good game today. Of course, Peyton won one more football game than the Ravens did today…..

4:04-MAYBE he was down; but I don’t think you overturn that. Game over. 17-15 Colts. Ravens 5-5.

4:02-I would have NEVER put Ed Reed back there to return that. NEVER. Ed is just too lackadaisical with the football.

4:00-Joe is only going to be able to throw the ball here about two times. A sack ends the game, an incompletion ALL but dooms them.

3:55-That timeout BEFORE the challenge about kills the Ravens. You challenge it OR you call a timeout. You can’t do both. The Colts can take this down to about a minute left now.

3:51-He’s been beat up a lot, but Domonique Foxworth made a nice tackle there. I think Reggie Wayne’s stretch made it.

3:50-Ray Lewis delivered a VICIOUS hit there, but the Colts still have it 3rd and 1. Picking this up would ALMOST doom the Ravens.

3:46-Unthinkable. Absolutely unthinkable. The Colts knew the Ravens would go to Ray Rice there, and Joe threw the ball despite the fact that there were 3 men in white shirts in the area. Gary Brackett with the pick.

3:44-I don’t know why Derrick Mason goes out of bounds there……idea would be to run the clock. But 8 catches and 137 yards allows you to get away with a couple mistakes.

3:43-That Ray Rice is some kind of special……

They need yards here. 51 yarder for Cundiff otherwise….

3:40-You have to wonder how this city will handle it if that last field goal by Matt Stover ends up being the difference in this game. I really don’t even want to think about it.

3:34-Ray got an extra shot in on Reggie Wayne after that one fell incomplete there.

This is a gimme for Stover. 17-15 Colts. 7:02 left. Ravens need to 1-run clock, 2-score. No pressure.

3:31-That being said, Ngata lead with his elbow; that’s a penalty. Really no doubt about it.

Foxworth with a costly missed tackle. Ravens have to keep Indy out of endzone here.

3:30-Gotta give secondary a TON of credit today. Without Terrell Suggs-the Ravens have gotten almost NO pass rush.

And Paul Kruger gets to make a big play thanks to one of the worst play calls I’ve ever seen.

Ray Lewis is not happy with the personal foul call on Haloti Ngata.

3:25-Cundiff tied Matt Stover’s franchise record of 5 field goals in a single game with that kick. Stover did it 4 times while he was in Baltimore.

3:23-I would also probably run the ball with Le’Ron McClain or have Ray Rice try to leap in. But that’s just me.

1:52-The stop on Donald Brown gives the defense another chance to get off the field after 3 plays. Doesn’t happen; as Austin Collie comes back to make a nice catch.

1:50-Michael Oher’s hold hurt the Ravens in trying to do something on that drive. Thankfully De’Von Hall helped them out on the punt return.

Speaking of Oher-despite the fact that I’m told many showings of “The Blind Side” were sold out in the Baltimore area, I’m pretty sure New Moon will win the weekend box office battle……

1:42-Everyone in the crowd here at M&T Bank Stadium owes Jeff Saturday a big thank you for that hold. I would have taken the Colts to convert that EVERY time.

Nice decision there by Chris Carr to call for a fair catch. NO reason to risk it when you’re getting the ball at the 10.

1:41-Jim Caldwell HAS to go for it here in no man’s land. Stover can’t make this kick, and you only gain 17 yards of field position if Pat McAfee’s punt goes to the endzone-which it very well might.

1:39-Ray is currently letting Dannell Ellerbe know he missed the assignment on the long completion to Santi. Kudos to Drew Forrester for pointing that out up here.

1:38-A Tom Santi sighting!

If Joseph Addai breaks off a few more runs like that, the Ravens will have difficulty stopping Peyton in short yardage situations.

Tom Santi is on fire…..Ray Lewis had not shot at getting that.

1:36-TJ Rushing returned that one for Indy instead of Chad Simpson. Colts probably thought they should have gotten more on first two kickoffs given line drive nature of Cundiff’s kicks. Freddy Keiaho’s penalty didn’t help them.

1:33-Tim Jennings made the play on Mason after Flacco hung another one up.

Cundiff comes in and knocks another one through. Hitting your first will do wonders for your confidence. 7-6 Colts. The bad news here is that despite the Ravens really having outplayed the Colts now for the better part of the first 11 minutes, they still trail.

12:09-Both Matt Stover and Billy Cundiff have made 50+ yard field goals during warm-ups. Of course, those are with no snapper and no holder; and we saw Steve Hauscka make 50+ yarders in warm-ups as well. Not sure if we can make anything of that.

Colts made roster moves……OT Daniel Federkeil placed on IR; S De’Von Hall signed and is ACTIVE.

CB Jacob Lacey will start for Indy in place of Kelvin Hayden.

Obviously, Todd Heap and Haloti Ngata are both ACTIVE.

11:32-To answer a question many of you have asked this week, there is no type of video tribute to Matt Stover scheduled for today’s game. I know the Titans did something like that for Steve McNair when he returned to Nashville-but according to a team official who I spoke to on Friday-the Ravens do not intend to recognize Matt at all today; not even by putting him up on the jumbotron to allow fans a chance to applaud him.

11:23-Let’s try to clarify what everyone is chatting about over on Twitter right now-the report Sal Paolantonio just gave to ESPN.

First of all, John Harbaugh is NOT out on the field with Haloti Ngata. Clarence Brooks was watching Ngata go up against Kelly Talavou. He looked fine to me, but I guess there’s a chance they were concerned about something in his motion. However, Haloti has been practicing for over a week, and was VERY confident he’d play.

Also-Terrell Suggs being out for a month is NOT news. We all knew that. I believe I reported it EVERY DAY this week. It was a 3-4 week injury at best. You do not sprain/tear a knee ligament and return in a week, no matter how much Coach Harbs and T-Sizzle try to convince everyone it is possible.

Matt Stover was out chatting with friends at midfield, including WR Mark Clayton. Both Stover and Clayton are very religious, they were very close here in Baltimore.

10:51-Greetings from M&T Bank Stadium in downtown Baltimore; where the 5-4 Baltimore Ravens face a pivotal contest with the 9-0 Indianapolis Colts today at 1pm. The game will air on CBS (WJZ 13 locally) with Greg Gumbel and Dan Dierdorf on the call. The Ravens need the victory to stay in the mix in the AFC Wild Card picture; as they currently trail the Steelers (6-3) and the Broncos/Chargers (both 6-3) by a game. The good news for the Ravens is that with a win-they will tie the loser of today’s game between San Diego and Denver; and they hold a tiebreaker over both teams.

I couldn’t help but notice a bunch of horseshoes and blue and white jerseys around M&T Bank Stadium today. While I’m certain that many of them came from “The Friendly Heart of the Midwest”, I am concerned that there are still fans around Charm City that root for Indy because “they just can’t root against those helmets.” I hope none of you reading this fall into that category.

Todd Heap (chest/ribs) is the biggest question mark for today’s game. My gut tells me he doesn’t play-but he was out here running a bit. Haloti Ngata (ankle) is not a question mark at all-he’s gonna go today.

We’ll have scratches out shortly. Make sure you sign up for the WNST Text Service-sent a text with “WNST” in the body to 68255.

-G

Comments Off on Harbaugh Should Have Shouldered Blame Following Ravens’ Crushing Loss to Colts

Congratulations to Adam Jones for winning a Gold Glove award. It really doesn’t matter if he was the most “deserving” CF in the American League, as the award clearly often goes to the player who had the most “WOW” moments or has the best reputation. Either of those honors is just as good as being the best statistical defender.

I thought John Turner’s decision to blast Debbie Yow was out of line. I think there is CERTAINLY an argument that Maryland might need to consider what the priorities are for the role of Athletic Director now that Debbie has done a great job in getting the department out of serious debt. However, publicly calling for the job of the University’s Athletic Department-especially DURING football season-reeks of someone trying to place blame somewhere BESIDES the football team for being 2-5.

The football team is 2-5. Debbie Yow is the athletic director, Ralph Friedgen is the coach, and Chris Turner is the quarterback. They are all to blame. Chris won’t be back next season. Ralph and Debbie almost certainly will. Each will have questions to answer moving forward.

-For the record, my question of John Harbaugh at the end of yesterday’s press conference (regarding Greg Mattison) was NOT asked to be an ass-or to put the coach “on the spot.” It was asked because one of the biggest storylines of the last 10 days has been Greg Mattison-with half of the city of Baltimore calling for Mattison’s head. I NEVER want to bring attention to myself during a press conference, I am just there doing a job. I needed a statement on the record from the Head Coach regarding his embattled Defensive Coordinator; and when challenged-I needed to make sure the Head Coach knew I was not going to let him belittle a relevant question. Please stop with your conspiracy “you just hate John Harbaugh” crap. I am a Ravens fan. I care about one thing, and one thing only. I want the Ravens to win. Other than that, I have a job to do as the Ravens analyst here at WNST.net.

– The Baltimore rush defense hadn’t allowed a 100-yard rusher in nearly three years before the Bengals’ Cedric Benson ended the streak at 39 games on Sunday.

Benson’s 28-yard touchdown run pushed him over the century mark while also giving the Bengals a 10-7 lead in the third quarter. The former Texas Longhorn rushed 27 times for 120 yards in the Bengals’ 17-14 victory over the Ravens.

“It sucks,” defensive tackle Haloti Ngata said about allowing a 100-yard rusher. “We definitely try to stop the run first, and basically, we didn’t do that today. We’ve got to go back and fix it, and hopefully do better this week.”

Kansas City Chiefs running back Larry Johnson was the last opponent to eclipse the 100-yard mark against the Baltimore defense before Benson on Sunday. Johnson’s 120-yard day took place in Kansas City on Dec. 10, 2006.

– Ed Reed continued to cultivate a Hall of Fame resume on Sunday, picking off Carson Palmer in the second quarter and returning it 52 yards for the first score of the game. It was Reed’s sixth career interception return for a touchdown, a franchise record.

It was the 45th interception of his eight-year career. His 45 interceptions and 1,213 interception return yards rank first among all active players in the NFL since 2002, Reed’s rookie season.

“It means nothing if you lose at the end of the day,” Reed said. “When you lose, everything else is out the window. Individual stuff doesn’t matter at the end of the day.”

Including the postseason, Reed has scored 13 touchdowns in his career. He is also the only player in NFL history to score touchdowns off of an interception, a blocked punt, a punt return, and a fumble recovery.

– Despite the offense scoring only seven points on the day, it was another sterling performance by second-year running back Ray Rice. The shifty back registered 143 yards from scrimmage against Cincinnati with 69 coming on the ground and 74 receiving yards (a new career high).

His 48-yard catch and run to the end zone looked to be the decisive blow for the Ravens before Palmer and the Bengals drove 80 yards in the final two minutes for the winning touchdown. Rice is averaging 114.4 net yards per game through the first five weeks of the season.

– Palmer was brilliant on Cincinnati’s final drive, but the Bengals were aided by three crucial Baltimore penalties. Defensive back Chris Carr was flagged for illegal contact, linebacker Ray Lewis was called for unnecessary roughness on a violent helmet-to-helmet hit on Chad Ochocinco, and Frank Walker’s pass interference penalty on 3rd-and-16 gave the Bengals a fresh set of downs at the Baltimore 20-yard line.

Following the Walker flag, Palmer connected with Andre Caldwell for the game-winning 20-yard touchdown.

“I felt like I went around him and batted the ball down, but we haven’t watched the film yet, so I could be inaccurate,” Walker said about the questionable call.

– Quarterback Joe Flacco’s 186 passing yards moved him past Steve McNair into third place in team history with 4,260 career yards through the air.

– Wide receiver Mark Clayton passed Qadry Ismail into third place for all-time receiving yards in team history. The fifth-year wideout has 2,849 yards in his career.

– Derrick Mason did not record a catch for the Ravens offense, making it the first time since Oct. 15, 2006 that the veteran receiver did not have at least one reception for the Baltimore offense.

– Tight end and special teams player Edgar Jones left the game with a hamstring injury and did not return. His was the only reported injury for the Ravens.

From everything I’ve gathered, the Jordan Williams situation is not a big deal for the Terps. Certainly it is embarrassing, but it doesn’t appear to be anything that will affect Jordan Williams moving forward on the court. In fact, the charges can possibly be dismissed if Jordan agrees to participate in an anger management program.

I do not know the details of the arrest (nor does anyone else), but from what I could gather in speaking to people yesterday who know about law enforcement, these are usually the types of charges that come from minor incidents where a fight was involved. It shouldn’t reflect on Jordan Williams being some sort of violent character.

With all of that being said, it is NOT okay for a Division 1 athlete to put himself in those types of situations. Jordan Williams is an important part of what is expected to be a renaissance for Gary Williams’ program. I wouldn’t be surprised if Jordan was suspended for the exhibition game this season (similar to how Greivis Vasquez was last season), but I would find any further punishment unlikely.

-I hear Drew talking about how the Orioles should be a 70+ win next season, and I can only think to myself “with what players?” Having Chris Tillman and Brian Matusz take a step forward would only solve PART of this organization’s problem.

-Tom Kelly? I guess. Certainly he’s a guy who knows a thing or two about winning, but I think if the Orioles are really committed to winning, they need to go with a younger guy who can grow with the players but already knows about winning. I said before that Bob Melvin would be my guy, and I still think he should be.

-The Ravens WILL have interest in bringing back Prescott Burgess, but I doubt he ends up back in Baltimore. Burgess was let go because the team just didn’t have room for him on the roster anymore. They don’t suddenly have any.

This is my fancy way of saying that I think this game is a COMPLETE toss-up. I’m picking overtime, and I’m giving the home team the AUTOMATIC 3 points. I wouldn’t bet this game if you begged me to. Of course, I don’t bet on football (really), so I’m probably not the guy whose opinion matters. These are two good football teams. San Diego has the advantage because the Ravens are going to the other side of the country. That’s all.

Maryland 31, Middle Tennessee State 20

Losing Phillip Tanner will hurt the Blue Raiders, who I think would have been a MUCH more legitimate upset candidate with their starting RB. They’ll still give the Terps a mighty scare, but Maryland won’t fall at home.

Coastal Carolina 31, Towson 17

This will be a more competitive game than the score indicates, but the Chanticleers are better than Rob Ambrose’s Tigers right now.

Pitt 38, Navy 27

Navy is better than they were last year. Pitt isn’t as good as they were last year. But this game is still at Heinz Field, and the Panthers will get the home win.

It’s Friday, and we’re a little more than 48 hours away from the Ravens second game of this young NFL Season. I’m certain you’re being provided with the best “up to the minute” Ravens 411, right here, at WNST.net …..

There is plenty to discuss and digest. The San Diego Chargers are by all means an “interesting” opponent for the Ravens. The issues and items for discussion are varied …..

Will the San Diego running attack – Tomlinson, Sproles & Bennett be effective against the Ravens defense? I’ll tell you on the SUNDAY MORNING BLITZ …..

Will Joe Flacco air it out 43 times? Heck I don’t have a clue – and anyone who says they do know, is full of sh!#. But, I’ll say this …. I’ll give you my thoughts on the SUNDAY MORNING BLITZ ….

And, will the Ravens “Front 4” get pressure on Philip Rivers, in this prelude to the matchup with Tom Brady and the Patriots, in two weeks? I’ll tell you on the SUNDAY MORNING BLITZ …..

Do you see a pattern here? That’s right, it’s FRIDAY !!!! Let’s lighten it up. And, in doing so, I’m gonna give you my reflections on this past week and the people who made it pretty interesting …..

Rex Ryan

The former Ravens Defensive Coordinator is enjoying some rockstar status with syndicated sports media, and the New York press. Heck, ESPN’s Mike Greenberg, a devout Jets loyalist, is practically ready to rename his son “REX.” I fully endorse it 

Given this recent ride of popularity, I wouldn’t be surprised to catch Rex Ryan hosting Saturday Night Live. And, if they really have any intentions – he’d better record tomorrow night’s episode. Indeed, some of the luster will wear off on Sunday.

‘Ole Rex might not be ready to “Kiss The Ring,” but he’d better be prepared to see his team take a good ass-whipping. And, as we know, beatdowns at the “mercy” of Bill Belichick are anything but …..

I think Rex’s mouth will get him into hot water sooner, rather than later. Hmmm …. is this a look in the mirror moment ??? You get it ????

Bill Belichick is known for punishing those who disrespect him or the franchise – just ask Eric Mangini. And, while it took Tom Brady & Company a few quarters to shake off nearly TWO YEARS of rust, last week, they still shook it off.

He’s back and the Jets are in real freakin’ trouble ……

Tila Tequila

It’s fairly apparent, Tila’s 15 minutes PLUS another half-hour of FAME ….. are over. Beyond, wishing her self-spiraling “antics and turmoil” on a few former colleagues, I really hope we never, ever hear her name, again.

Vince Young

Yes, THAT Vince Young.

While he might be serving as the backup quarterback, with the Titans, Young committed a “first string” gesture of love and humanity, on Wednesday. In a total surprise moment, Young showed up at the late Steve McNair’s Nashville home and escorted his two youngest sons to their school’s annual “Father & Son Breakfast.”

Vince Young simply did a selfless thing. I’m impressed. But, I hope we hear the same story next year, and the year after. Get my drift …..

Kanye West

Well, he’s the week’s most searched name on internet engines. And, we all know the reason. I won’t give Kanye West much attention. I’ll just concede the truth …..

He’s lived a life with patterned behavior of a RACIST. He is a racist. I think celebrity is coupled with a responsibility to accountability. While celebrities are NOT role models, they are expected to live a life of good citizenry. And, the world is watching.

Kanye West is not a good person – period.

Ernie Harwell

Perhaps, this is the only fitting way of mentioning Ernie Harwell and Kanye West in the same article. Ernie Harwell embodies responsible citizenry and CLASS. At 92, the Hall Of Fame announcer is battling incurable cancer, and he has no regrets.

Ernie Harwell is loved throughout the baseball and sports world. You know how that happens? It’s easy ….. BE GOOD TO PEOPLE.

On Wednesday, the Detroit Tigers and fans took time for Ernie – and he took time for them. It’s been a wonderful marriage, and the ceremony was as authentic as they come. He’s at home ….. with the “Great People of Michigan.” Well, said ……

HAVE A GREAT WEEKEND EVERYBODY – PLEASE TUNE INTO THE “SUNDAY MORNING BLITZ” @ 9AM – THIS WEEK !!!!

Vince Young wasn’t stepping up in the pocket, he was stepping up in life.

The Tennessee Titans quarterback surprised the sons of his desceased friend by taking Steve McNair’s sons to their school’s “Dear Dads Breakfast” on Wednesday in Nashville.

Young looked up to McNair as a kid, and he didn’t have to think twice about doing this for Trenton and Tyler.

“Those are my boys,” Young told The Tennessean. “I wouldn’t say it was to pay anyone back; it was just out of love. Steve would do it for me. He pretty much did it for me when I was growing up.

“I have a history with the boys and I want to do anything I can. I am their big brother.”

McNair was shot and killed July 4.

Young knew McNair, who quarterbacked the Titans from 1995 to 2005, long before entering the NFL, having attended youth football camps. He also spoke at McNair’s funeral in Hattiesburg, Miss.

“It was a great, great gesture,” said Julie Dilworth, admissions director at St. Paul Christian Academy. “All the kids had been talking about the dads’ breakfast and (Trenton and Tyler) were wondering what was going to happen with them.

“They were thrilled … the boys came to school with huge smiles on their faces.”

At the breakfast, Young gave jerseys and autographs to several students.

“Overall they are doing cool, doing good,” he said of McNair’s sons. “Just talking to their mom, I think they are going to be all right. I am always going to be here for them, always.”

Those 4 plays either directly (or indirectly) created a 20 point swing in the game. If the Ravens get the 3 that Hauschka left out there, and the Chiefs don’t get the 17 that those three plays created; the Ravens would have cruised to a 41-7 victory.

But those plays DIDN’T go that way.

Instead, those 4 plays turned a potential laugher into a game the Ravens had to sweat out in the final minutes; in a game that Todd Heap admitted afterward “everybody was expecting to go” safely in favor of the Ravens.

The Ravens REALLY played a very good game today. Joe Flacco threw for a career-high 307 yards and 3 TD’s. Ray Rice rushed 19 times for 108 yards as part of an attack that (along with RB’s Le’Ron McClain and Willis McGahee) combined for 237 yards of total offense. 7 different Ravens caught passes, with 5 different receivers tallying 30 or more yards. The defense allowed just 9 Kansas City first downs (two more came from penalties), and only 188 total yards. The Ravens won the time of possession battle by an almost 2-1 margin.

It was a particularly impressive performance, at least numbers wise; but it didn’t translate into the final score.

Because of those 4 plays that went the wrong way, the Ravens were forced to dig deep, rally from a 2nd half deficit, and hold off a Chiefs team that suddenly felt like it belonged.

Which was a clear example that every play in every game against every team truly matters.

4 plays causing a 20 point swing can be reversed against a team like the Chiefs. The Ravens recovered from every mistake and marched back down field to forge ahead every time the Chiefs got them in trouble. But they will not be able to do the same against every team on the schedule-starting next week against the Chargers.

In the words of John Harbaugh: “Any one play makes a difference in a game like that.”

And on Sunday, it almost made an insurmountable difference. In the future, it might.

Hopefully a closer than expected win over the Kansas City Chiefs will be enough to remind the Ravens that any single missed assignment, any single bad read, any single wrong route, any single bad strike of the football, and any single play taken off can completely change the outcome of a football game.

I imagine we’ll find out in San Diego.

-G

4:19-And there it is. Ravens win AND cover in a nailbiter. 38-24 Ravens. Be back with more after Harbaugh and the locker room. Tune into AM1570 for Eric Aaronson’s post-game show, and don’t forget about our “Purple Haze” tonight.

4:17-Andy Studebaker fielded Hauschka’s squib kick, which is nothing more than an excuse for me to say the name “Studebaker.”

4:13-Ravens take a timeout with 36 ticks remaining in this one. Don’t see Steve Hasuchka scampering out to the field, I imagine the play here is nothing more than a Flacco sneak.

I was wrong, it was a McGahee plunge. And just like that, the Ravens are going to cover. That’s pretty funny.

4:11-If they scored there, or score here……you mean to tell me they can still cover?

You definitely go for it if this play isn’t overturned.

4:09-Le’Ron McClain was ruled to have been stopped inside the 1. They’ll take a look, but I don’t think they’ll overturn it. Don’t have a good angle to look at this.

4:07-Croyle is sacked by Trevor Pryce, who forces a fumble that is recovered by KC. Doesn’t matter, as the Ravens take over. KC has 2 timeouts, so Baltimore will have to score here to finish this off.

4:06-Two incomplete passes later, the Chiefs face a 4th and 18 from their own 13. Here’s the ballgame.

4:04-Call was apparently overturned (here’s the official word that Croyle’s FOREARM was down), and KC will get the ball back with 1:54 to play-2nd and 18 from its own 13.

3:59-This one’s just about over now. Jarret Johnson sacks Brodie Croyle, Croyle fumbles, and Terrell Suggs recovers at the 12 yard line. KC has two timeouts, and the refs will look at it again to make sure it was a fumble. It looked like it was. With 1:54 left the Ravens couldn’t run out the clock, but a first down or a score would end it. First 2 sack game of Jarret Johnson’s career.

3:56-The 43 pass attempts, 307 yards, and 3 TD passes are all career highs for Joe Flacco. The 492 yards of total offense is a team record for the Ravens.

3:54-Ravens try to take a shot at the endzone, but Derrick Mason couldn’t bring in the ball. Leggett on the coverage. 3rd and 8 from the 31.

One play later, the Ravens went RIGHT BACK to the endzone, and Mark Clayton made it count this time. A 31 yard TD toss to Clayton, and Hauschka’s XP makes it 31-24 with 2:06 to play in the game.

8 plays, 74 yards, 3:15 on the TD drive.

3:51-Ray Rice keeps jawing with Brandon Carr even after picking up 9 yards to the KC 35. Rice moved over the century mark with that run, and Le’Ron McClain gives the Ravens another first down one play later. 2:30 to play.

3:49-Mark Clayton runs for 9 yards, and the Ravens get a first down pickup from Le’Ron McClain. They’re in KC territory with 3:30 to play in regulation. Steve Hauschka may well get a chance to make a crucial kick.

3:47-Jameel McClain was on the coverage on the Ryan TD. Not bad coverage, but couldn’t make the play. Ravens right back to work as Flacco finds McGahee out of the backfield, and he scrambles upfield for 14 yards. Ravens at their own 40.

3:45-Croyle to Sean Ryan for the 10 yard TD. Wow. Didn’t look like he got in, but no challenge from the Ravens. Succop’s XP is good, and we’re tied at 24 with 5:21 to play in regulation. Who saw this coming?

6 plays, 80 yards, 2:49 for the Chiefs on the drive.

3:43-If you give a bad team a chance to feel like they belong, they’ll suddenly start to believe they are. Chiefs have the ball in the red zone, and the Ravens need to come with a stop. This game is 4 plays away from being an absolute laugher, but it is instead an absolute nailbiter. Ravens have been late with their rush, including Trevor Pryce on the last play, putting the Chiefs at the Baltimore 10.

3:34-Boy is Ray Rice good in space. He takes the Ravens down to the 1 yard line with a 22 yard scamper off the Flacco pitch. One play later, Le’Ron McClain is in the endzone, and the Ravens are back on top with 8:10 to play in the 4th. Thank God.

Hauschka’s XP makes it 24-17. 9 plays 76 yards 3:47.

3:32-Facing pressure, Flacco goes underneath to Mason for what appears to be a first down at the KC 29 yard line.

3:30-What a game for Todd Heap today. Might be trying to earn #1 on my “Tuesday Top 7” list. He gives the Ravens a 1st down at the KC 39 yard line.

3:29-Elsewhere, Donovan McNabb left the Eagles-Panthers game with a rib injury, meaning the Michael Vick saga may be even MORE interesting.

Back here, Tavares Gooden has returned to the Ravens sideline, and they have a 1st down at the 37 after a pass to Willis McGahee.

3:25-Succop is GOOD from 53. He was GOING to be the kicker the Ravens went after. Not to rub it in or anything…..

17-17 now. 7 plays, 55 yards, 2:51 for KC.

3:24-One play after a big Ed Reed stop in the backfield, Brodie Croyle throws away a ball that was apparently “intended” for TE Sean Ryan. If they say so. Croyle is incomplete going for Mark Bradley on 3rd down; and Ryan Succop will attempt a FG from 53.

3:22-Two runs later, and the Chiefs face a 3rd and 4 from the 16. They took the shot I thought they would, and Mark Bradley beat Fabian Washington (who had decent coverage) for 50 yards. Chiefs have it at the Baltimore 34.

3:19-Sam Koch puts the Chiefs back at their own 10 yard line to start this drive. Ravens need to stay steady defensively, just not make any particular mistakes. Wouldn’t stun me if Todd Haley tried to put a ball up top. They’ve had no success physically against the Ravens, but they might be able to find something downfield.

3:15-Flacco and the Ravens will face a 3rd and 10 from the KC 41 to open the 4th quarter. Joe Flacco’s day will not be one to marvel over tonight on SportsCenter.

3:13-Brendon Ayanbadejo receiving medical attention on sidelines. No word on what they’re working on with him.

3:12-Just 28 yards on Colquitt’s punt after another defensive stop. Las Vegas could be making money on this one today, as I bet the Ravens try to keep it on the ground the rest of the way. They’ll start at their own 48.

3:07-71,099 here at “The Bank” today. As if we expected something else…..

3:03-Flacco with the soft toss to Heap, who dives into the endzone for the TD. Everybody breathe again. That looked like a Ravens drive.

Hauschka’s XP is good. 11 plays, 64 yards, 4:55. 9 yards from Flacco to Heap and the Ravens are back on top 17-14.

3:01-Tavares Gooden has been taken back to the locker room. Appears to be a knee issue.

2:58-I think the Ravens made a mistake at the beginning of this game by not establishing the run and then opening up the passing attack. By going to the passing attack early, they appeared to get themselves out of rhythm. During that time, a couple big plays the other way have put them behind the 8 ball.

They’re driving now though. A first down toss to Todd Heap was followed by a 16 yard scramble by Willis McGahee. 1st down from the KC 24.

Dwan Edwards takes the kick and rumbles upfield to the 36. Tavares Gooden is down on the field and had to be helped off.

2:51-An illegal hands to the face penalty on Tavares Gooden gives KC a 1st and goal from the 2. Wow.

One play later, Croyle finds Dwayne Bowe for a TD strike, and the Chiefs now have a 2nd half LEAD. I never thought I’d type those words today.

Succop’s XP makes it 14-10 KC with 8:52 to play in the 3rd quarter. We all must remember that the other team still tries.

2 plays, 6 yards, 5o seconds on the TD “drive.”

2:48-What a disaster. Flacco intercepted by Derrick Johnson, who returns it all the way to the Baltimore 6 yard line (70 yard return), where the Chiefs will take over. This crowd is STUNNED, but trying to rally behind their defense. What a mess this has been.

2:46-According to a few friends (via Facebook), John Harbaugh was not pleased in his halftime interview with Stan White on 98 Rock. He shouldn’t be.

Chris Chester called for a hold on first down, and a Joe Flacco run for 2 yards gives the Ravens 2nd and 18 from the KC 42 yard line.

2:44-Flacco to Washington again for a 1st down. That’s Washington’s 3rd first down catch of the game.

On 2nd and 1, Flacco handed off to McClain to convert the first down. Ravens have it at KC’s 34.

2:42-Every time I see Ryan Succop kick the ball, I am reminded that he was the kicker the Ravens had targeted to sign after the NFL Draft. He became “Mr. Irrelevant”, but Eric DeCosta told us the Ravens were hoping to sign him after the Draft. Would he be better than Steve Hauschka? I don’t know. But that was a hell of a kickoff.

Flacco is NEARLY intercepted by Page on the Ravens’ first drive of the 2nd half. 3rd and 6 from the Ravens’ own 46.

2:26-Instead, they dump it underneath to Jamaal Charles, who is wrapped up after about a 12 yard gain. Strange decision.

Ravens 10, Chiefs 7 at the half. Doubt much of anyone is happy with it. I’ll be back shortly.

2:25-Nothing else cooking for the Chiefs on this drive, but they’ll take a timeout with 1 second left to try to throw a Hail Mary. They’re at the Ravens’ 49 yard line.

2:23-And I’m wrong. Spot stands, and Kansas City will have it at the 41 yard line; where a Jamaal Charles run will provide another first down into Baltimore territory.

No timeouts remain for the Ravens.

2:21-The Ravens decided to challenge the spot of the first down catch; which seems a BIT strange to me. However, it looks like Engram MAY have been a bit short.

2:18-At the 2 minute warning, we finally have the initial first down of the game for the KC offense, thanks to an 11 yard pass to Bobby Engram; who I can honestly say I didn’t realize was with the Chiefs until earlier this week.

As a note, being in a 3 point game with a team who just got their initial first down late in the 2nd half is COMPLETELY unacceptable.

2:10-3rd and 4 from the 23, and Flacco’s pass is deflected again. Hauschka will be out to attempt another FG. As I said, the Ravens should NOT be happy with field goals in the 1st half. Hauschka is wide left on his try; and the name Matt Stover just got WAY more popular in town. That was a 41 yard attempt. 10-7 with 3:49 to play in the half.

2:09-Great through from Flacco to Clayton for 16 and a first down at the KC 29. That was a great play on both sides, really.

2:07-Flacco finds Clayton for a first down at the Chiefs’ 41. Near disaster a play later, as Tamba Hali sacked Flacco (beat Jared Gaither) and forced a fumble. Flacco recovered his own fumble, but lost 4 yards on the play. He’s been in trouble a number of times in the first half. Ray Rice is overthrown on 2nd down; the Ravens face 3rd and 14.

2:04- 3rd and 5 after Flacco gained just one on a scramble. He took a hard hit on his way out from veteran LB Mike Vrabel, but it wasn’t illegal. A delay of game will make it 3rd and 10. The Ravens offense has lost the rhythm they had going early.

There it is again. Flacco to Heap for 17 yards and a first down at the Baltimore 46.

2:02-Chris Carr fields the kickoff return about 6 yards deep in the endzone; stumbles, and still tries to bring it out. BAD decisions on special teams thus far. He takes it to the 19, where the Ravens take over. Flacco finds Rice on a screen, he takes it 10 yards for a first down. He’s much better in space.

2:00-First blocked punt returned for a TD given up by the Ravens since 1998 against the Jaguars. What a brutal special teams effort there.

1:57-The only thing I’ve noticed the Ravens have struggled with so far is getting Ray Rice the ball in space. No bubble or screen routes to their speedy back just yet; just straight handoffs, most of which have been right up the middle. 3rd and 5 after a Rice run and a Mason drop. They tried to throw to Rice, but the Chiefs stayed underneath and allowed him to get just 2 yards. 4th and 3, and the Ravens will have to punt again. Stagnant offense when pinned down deep.

Disaster strikes just a play later. Jon McGraw blocks Sam Koch’s punt and recovers it in the endzone for a TD. And a game that the Ravens have been absolutely DOMINATING is now a 3 point game. Jerry Rosburg will be FUMING.

Ryan Succop’s point after makes it 10-7 Ravens with 9:55 to play in the 2nd quarter.

1:55-First half total yards:

Ravens 106
Chiefs 5

1:54-Tyler Thigpen in at QB for the Chiefs, and he leads them to a 3 and out. Which means he’s about as good as the other guy.

Carr with the fair catch at the 9. You think maybe the Ravens might try to do something on the ground already?

1:50-Flacco’s screen to Clayton is short of a first down; and Sam Koch’s 54 yard bomb is dropped by Maurice Leggett with Matt Lawrence bearing down on him. Leggett recovered his own fumble, and the Chiefs take over at their own 29.

By the way, had Flacco just TAKEN the safety on that previous play instead of the intentional grounding causing the safety; the Ravens would have had a first down there due to the illegal contact. He had no way of knowing that, but it’s an interesting point nonetheless.

1:46-The 2nd quarter opens with Flacco airing out a bomb to Mark Clayton; who fell behind Maurice Leggett and didn’t have the burst to recover.

Joe Flacco’s 1st down run on 3rd down will be negated due to holding, ad the Ravens will face 3rd and 17. Tamba Hali on the pressure. I forgot Tamba Hali existed. Such is Chiefs football.

1:42-Luke Jones also points out that the Ravens had their “safe” team on for that punt, in case of a fake.

Dustin Colquitt has a HELL of a foot. 61 yards on that punt. A penalty will force the Ravens to start from their own 8.

1:38-Brendon Ayanbadejo’s celebration after his tackle of Chiefs KR Quinten Lawrence was MUCH more appropriate than Antwan Barnes’ celebration.

Luke Jones notes that Chris Carr was in at the nickel back spot. This was assumed to be Frank Walker’s spot, but Greg Mattison said this week that the team would be flexible at the position. Expect to see Lardarius Webb there too.

Croyle’s 3rd down pass to Mark Bradley appeared to be good for a first down, but was measured just short. Still no first downs for the Chiefs just yet. Ed Reed back to return the punt.

1:37-Tough start to the Jim Schwartz era in Detroit; as the Saints went up 14-0 in the 1st quarter against the Lions. I made a late Fantasy Football roster change to add Mike Bell, hopefully he puts up big numbers.

1:34-Joe Flacco gets schoolyard on 3rd and goal; and finds Willis McGahee for a 3 yard TD. That was absolutely unfair.

13 plays, 70 yards, 6:44, Hauschka’s extra point makes it 10-0. Rich Dubroff (of the Carroll County Times) reminds me that 7 different Ravens had touches on that drive. Very impressive stuff.

Haloti Ngata was in offensively on 3rd and goal. McGahee’s 40th career TD-only his 2nd receiving TD. Thanks to Press Box PA announcer Gary Stein for the note.

1:30-Flacco goes to the ground for a 1st down at the Chiefs’ 25. 109 yards for the Ravens thus far, -4 for the Chiefs. Nice job by the production staff at CBS.

Flacco tries to find McGahee on 2nd and 8; but the pass was almost picked on a deflection by Jarrod Page.

On 3rd and 8; Flacco fires up the crowd by finding Todd Heap to the 9 yard line. The red zone is a HUGE area for Todd Heap to re-establish himself as a weapon.

1:28-Another first down toss to Kelley Washington, who is proving to be quite the reliable target for Joe Flacco. I know some blogger/reporter/morning show sidekick/producer/dreamboat who was saying that a few weeks ago……

1:27-Rice with his 2nd carry of the game; this time for 4 yards. Ravens show an unbalanced line for the first time today, with Michael Oher moving to the left side. The unbalanced line will ALWAYS be a part of Cam Cameron’s offense, but the Ravens need to show different plays WITH the unbalanced line to make it effective. 3rd and 2.

1:25-A screen to Le’Ron McClain comes back due to a Derrick Mason holding call. The Ravens will now face ANOTHER 1st and 10 from the 30. And Derrick Mason CONTINUES to find space. 13 yard gain, first down at the 43.

1:23-No electricity from Chris Carr just yet in the punt return game. A 57 yard punt from Colquitt is returned just 7 yards, and Joe Flacco takes over at his own 30 yard line. I expect a more balanced drive here.

1:21-VERY hot crowd at M&T Bank Stadium, forcing Brodie Croyle to take Kansas City’s 1st timeout. I’m surprised the Chiefs even tried to find Mark Bradley on 3rd and 15. That play had bad news written all over it. A draw probably would have been a smarter decision.

1:19-Ravens take their second timeout of the first quarter; with 9:06 to play. That’s not good.

1:16-Antwan Barnes with an INSANE celebration after being involved on the tackle of Jamaal Charles at the 25. What the hell was that all about?

Croyle to Charles for a gain of 1 on first down. Getting a first down could be as good as getting a score for KC today. Jarret Johnson with a PUNISHING sack of Croyle on 2nd down-which could have been MUCH more violent. 3rd & 15.

1:13-KC brought heat, and Flacco’s pass to Rice was incomplete. A 44 yard attempt by Steve Hauschka travels through the goal posts, meaning every fan who mumbled “better have Stover’s number ready” before the kick attempt is probably now saying “still should probably have Stover’s number ready.”

9 plays, 54 yards, 3:16 on the drive. Ravens go up 3-0 with 10:19 to play in the 1st quarter.

1:10-Kelley Washington gave the crowd at M&T Bank Stadium his first down dance after his nice leaping catch. Washington is a pretty reserved guy, which makes his antics all the more enjoyable.

Flacco to Mark Clayton on 2nd down for 11 yards to the 24. 5 offensive plays, all designed passes (one ended up being a Flacco run). Make that 6, but this one is ruled out of bounds. Surprised by the aerial attack; but this might just be Cam Cameron trying to catch Clancy Pendergast’s defense off guard. It’s working. Ray Rice finally gets his first carry and is stopped in the backfield, bringing up a 3rd and 12.

1:09-John Harbaugh takes his first timeout; you wonder if he’s thinking about a challenge. I don’t think he could get the call overturned though.

1:07-Kelley Washington with a GREAT catch for 22 yards, as the Ravens have run 3 pass plays on their first 3 plays from scrimmage. Mason APPEARED to have hauled in a TD pass on the next play in the back of the endzone, but it was ruled incomplete. The replay in the box appeared inconclusive.

1:06-Great protection from the O-Line on first down gives Joe Flacco all day to throw. The Ravens are throwing again on 2nd down, with Flacco hitting Derrick Mason for 19 yards to the Ravens’ 43.

1:04-Kansas City trying to make it work on the ground early (which is their only hope, really), and Ray Lewis with a stop in the backfield on Larry Johnson’s 2nd down rush. Terrell Suggs deflects Croyle’s 3rd and 9 pass; and the Chiefs will have to punt. They tried to go to a no huddle on the first drive, but it didn’t appear to help.

Dustin Colquitt’s with a decent punt, and combined with a Domonique Foxworth hold; the Ravens will start from their own 20.

1:02-Jamaal Charles returns Steve Hauschka’s opening ick to the 26 yard line; and football is now OFFICIALLY back in Baltimore.

1:01-Today’s game is on CBS (WJZ 13 locally) with Ian Eagle and former Raiders QB Rich Gannon on the call.

1:00-A flyover during today’s Star Spangled Banner excited the crowd. Ravens win coin flip, elect to defer to 2nd half; putting the defense out on the field first to go after Brodie Croyle.

12:54-Some hand gestures from Tavares Gooden as he dances out onto the field for the first time as a starter in a regular season game here at “The Bank.”

As a reminder, I picked the Ravens over KC 24-7 today. Anybody else already go out on a limb?

12:38-Does Michael Phelps still count as a celebrity sighting? He’s here, rocking his Ed Reed jersey on the sideline. Winning 14 gold medals really helps you get where you want to go.

12:09-Tyler Thigpen is backing up Brodie Croyle today; Matt Gutierrez is the emergency 3rd QB. Matt Cassel will not play no matter what.

This kinda makes me think that Todd Haley is treating today’s game as a bit of a “lost cause”, as Cassel looked okay in warmups; or that Scott Pioli said something along the lines of “we didn’t pay this guy a boatload of money to put him in serious danger.”

The Ravens will wear their white tops and black pants today.

12:04-This means the Ravens are dressing just 7 Offensive Linemen; with Marshal Yanda and David Hale the only reserves. Should Jared Gaither get hurt, Michael Oher would have to slide to the left side, and Marshal Yanda would have to move to the Right Tackle position. Remember, Marshal Yanda is battling a knee injury that will put Chris Chester in the starting lineup today.

Paul Kruger is also a bit of a surprise scratch. This could be nothing more than a numbers issue; as there has been no reason to think Kruger has been battling any injury issues.

11:34-There is a rumor floating around that Matt Cassel will be inactive today. From a Chiefs PR staffer: “I can neither confirm nor deny.”

11:15-The Ravens are 1-3 all-time against the Chiefs, but won the most recent match-up in 2006; 20-10 at Arrowhead Stadium en route to an AFC North division crown. The Chiefs’ 3 wins in the series ALL came here at M&T Bank Stadium, by scores of 35-8 (1999), 17-10 (2003) and 27-24 (2004). The 2003 game was the game where Dante Hall returned a kick 97 yards for the game winning TD. This was especially frustrating because Adalius Thomas had been called offsides on the first kickoff try, giving “The X Factor” a 2nd chance. Thanks to the Ravens Media Relations department for jogging my memory of that.

The Ravens are 5-8 all-time in season openers (including some infuriating losses to the likes of the Rams, Bengals, and Panthers); 3-3 all-time when their Week 1 game has been here in Charm City.

11:03-The Ravens enter the first game of the regular season coming off a preseason in which they finished 4-0 and looked particularly strong when their first team was on the field. The Chiefs? Things weren’t quite as good for them. They finished 0-4 in the preseason and scored 13 points or fewer in all 4 games.

The Chiefs are playing the first game of Todd Haley’s head coaching tenure, after he lead the Arizona Cardinals offense to the Super Bowl a season ago. Today is also the LIKELY first game for Matt Cassel as QB of the Chiefs after he lead the Patriots to 10 wins following Tom Brady’s Week 1 injury a season ago. Cassel is questionable for today’s game with a left knee injury, but did practice this week.

The Ravens open their season following a 2008 campaign that took them all the way to the AFC Championship Game. John Harbaugh and Joe Flacco know a thing or two about how Haley and Cassel may be feeling right now; as they were in a first year coach/first year QB situation going into Week 1 last season. Harbaugh and Flacco didn’t need long to get things going, as they beat Cincinnati 17-10 in their first game together.

10:57-Greetings from the press box at M&T Bank Stadium here in beautiful downtown Baltimore, where the Ravens open their 2009 campaign against the Kansas City Chiefs.

A news note before I get into a game preview: The Ravens will honor the late Steve McNair before today’s game with a moment of silence, scheduled for 12:57. Kickoff is set for 1:02.